The University of Pittsburgh’s fireworks display originating from
Mazeroski Field will happen this Friday unless men and women of good
conscience can stand together to pursue the truth.

Twenty-one people signed a petition to stop this fireworks display.
Most of the signers are elderly, and they had hoped and expected that
Chancellor Mark Nordenberg would understand the suffering of their community
and would voluntarily move the fireworks display to another venue.

Even before the petition was delivered, the Chancellor was presented
with an opportunity to express his concern and compassion. Unfortunately,
he did not take advantage of the opportunity.

You have the power to end this injustice; all it takes is the willingness
to expose the truth. The individuals who signed the petition have shown
that power is simply the ability and willingness to take action. It requires
fearlessness, even in moments of great terror, and it also requires the
dignity and confidence to stand up for what is right.

Our community trusts that you will use your power to do what is right
and that you will have the courage to trust in the conviction of your
inner morality.

What has happened in the past has ended and our focus is on the creation
of a new future. Your action can lead to something bigger and nobler
than just the ending of this fireworks display. It can lead to new dreams
and new visions, inspired by allowing the elderly residents of our community
to live out the remaining days of their lives in a more loving and peaceful
environment.

We ask that you be a champion for our community and allow goodness,
truth, and justice to prevail. We know you trust in God. The elders of
our community are trusting in you and in God.